Essay on Epitome of Enlightenment - 1232 Words

The Enlightenment, rooted in late 17th century European philosophy, was based on the concept of applying scientific principles of logic and reasoning to all endeavors of life. Having become established in America by the mid-18th century, Enlightenment principles were practiced by many of the most notable â€Å"fathers† of the American Revolution. The American Declaration of Independence, written in 1776 is one of the most significant examples of a document whose writing was motivated by enlightenment principles. (http://dogofletters.wordpress.com). It proposed some basic principles of how the authors believed humanity should be treated by a government and proscribed governmental actions they found reprehensible; therefore, it would not be wrong†¦show more content†¦This document played the role of political propaganda statement to help create support for American independence overseas in countries like France and Spain. It also, in detailing the abuses of the British and elaborating the Enlightenment ideals of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness for all citizens, was the fundamental document of the Revolution, and laid the groundwork for the development of the United States Constitution. (Batten, 2010, pp 388). The term epitome of enlightenment means the source of critical ideas or thoughts, such as the prevalence of democracy and freedom, and encompasses the primary values of a people or a society. Considering these factors, it would not be wrong to say that the Declaration of Independence serves as an epitome of enlightenment (http://dogofletters.wordpress.com). The American Declaration of Independence contains 30 grievances against the actions of George III, the British monarch then on the throne. Most of them were legitimate and traditional grievances under British constitutional law. The authors of the document strongly stated that the British monarch had established an absolute tyranny over the colonial states. The authors pointed out that the British were imposing their army on the American colonies and requiring Americans to pay taxes but not giving them representation in the parliament. It also includedShow MoreRelatedThe Enlightment Period in Japan through the Novel Snashiro Essay929 Words   |  4 Pages The Enlightenment Period was all about new ways of thinking about life during the 18th century in Europe. The age of Enlightenment was during a time when society came to a conclusion that life could be improved through modernization. Some philosophers like Rousseu and Wollstonecraft challenged society’s beliefs. Japan however embraced everything it could from Europe. 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